a strong tradition
As the natural product of a society seeking equality for all, the sporting tradition for disabled athletes developed early in the history of Harmonian sport. In 1924, the Harmonian Confederation organized its first Equality Games, allowing disabled participants to compete in athletic competitions in the stadium at Peace Harbour. These Games were held upon the return of the Harmonian Olympic delegation until national participation in the Paralympic Games began in 1960. Beginning in 1932, the Equality Games began to include sports on ice and snow as part of the programme.
As soon as Harmonian athletes began to participate in the Paralympic Games, Harmonians began the effort to include a winter version of the Paralympic Games into the international programme, and invited observers to the Equality Games of 1968. At this event, Harmonian officials announced their intentions to organize the first Winter Paralympic Games in 1972. However, these plans did not come into fruition due to concerns over the scheduling of the event and the transport of athletes across long distances in order to reach the country. Harmonian officials then offered to help to organize an event in Japan to coincide with the Sapporo Games, but this was declined due to lack of funds. However, since this early push, Harmonians have been consulted for their expertise on disabled sport both in Summer and Winter Paralympic Games.
